Questions?
We have answers.
Clear, honest answers about HIV prevention, sexual health, and how Zivoko works, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
PEP, PrEP & Injectable Options
QWhat is PEP and when should I take it?
PEP, Post-Exposure Prophylaxis, is an emergency HIV prevention medication taken after a potential exposure to the virus. It must be started within 72 hours of exposure and taken every day for 28 days without interruption. The sooner it is started, the more effective it is.
QWhat is PrEP and who should use it?
PrEP, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, is a preventive medication taken by HIV-negative individuals who are at ongoing risk of exposure. When taken consistently as directed, oral PrEP reduces the risk of HIV infection by up to 99%. PrEP is recommended for anyone with an HIV-positive partner, multiple sexual partners, or any other circumstances that place them at continued risk.
QWhat types of PrEP does Zivoko offer?
There are three forms of PrEP, and they are at different stages of availability in Nigeria:
Oral PrEP is a daily pill taken at the same time each day. This is the most widely used form, it is highly effective when taken consistently, and it is available now. For most people starting PrEP, this is the practical choice.
CAB-LA (Cabotegravir Long-Acting) is an injectable PrEP given once every two months. It is a discreet option for people who prefer not to take a daily pill.
Lenacapavir is the newest long-acting PrEP, given as an injection twice a year, with remarkable results in clinical trials.
Both injectable options are genuinely promising, but access to injectables in Nigeria is still at an early stage and rolling out gradually. If you are interested in either one, message our team and we will tell you honestly where access stands right now, and help you choose the best option you can start with today.
QWhat is the difference between PEP and PrEP?
PEP is for after a potential exposure. It is a short-term emergency intervention that must begin within 72 hours. PrEP is for before exposure. It is an ongoing prevention strategy for people at continued risk.
If you have just had a potential exposure and are not already on PrEP, you need PEP immediately. If you are concerned about ongoing risk, speak with our team about starting PrEP once your current situation has been addressed.
QWhat happens if I miss a dose of PEP?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose, in which case skip the missed dose and continue with your normal schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
Consistency is critical with PEP. Missing doses reduces its effectiveness significantly. If you are struggling to maintain your schedule, contact our team via WhatsApp and we will support you through the process.
QWhat are the common side effects of PEP?
PEP is generally well tolerated. Some people experience mild side effects in the first few days, including nausea, fatigue, headache, or diarrhoea, which typically ease as your body adjusts to the medication. Taking PEP with food can help reduce nausea.
If side effects are severe or persistent, contact us. Our team can advise on managing them without interrupting your course.
QI am not sure whether I need PEP or PrEP. What should I do?
Contact us immediately via WhatsApp or phone. Our team will ask you a few brief questions about your situation and guide you to the right option. If there is any chance you have had a recent exposure, do not wait. Reach out now so we can assess whether PEP is needed while time is still on your side.
QCan I take PrEP if I am HIV positive?
No. PrEP is only for HIV-negative individuals. If you are HIV positive, PrEP will not treat the virus and is not appropriate. You should be linked to antiretroviral therapy (ART) instead.
This is why we confirm your HIV status before prescribing any form of PrEP. If you are unsure of your status, we can help you access an HIV self-test first.
How to Order from Zivoko
QHow do I place an order?
You can place an order through our website at zivoko.ng/shop, or directly via WhatsApp at +234 7014394194. WhatsApp is the fastest route for urgent orders, particularly PEP. Once your order is received, our team completes a brief verification and your order is immediately processed and dispatched.
QDo I need a prescription to order from Zivoko?
You do not need to arrive with an existing prescription. Our licensed pharmacists conduct a brief assessment to confirm suitability before dispensing any prescription medication. This verification is completed within minutes, ensuring you receive the right medication safely and without unnecessary delay.
QHow do I pay for my order?
Payment can be made online at checkout via our secure payment gateway, or via bank transfer for WhatsApp orders. We accept card payments and bank transfers. Your full card details are never stored on our servers. Payment processing is handled by a PCI-DSS compliant provider.
QCan I pick up my order instead of having it delivered?
Yes. Collection is available at our headquarters, Zivoko Healthcare, 5 Emmanuel Ibitolu Street, Ajah, Lagos (open daily, 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM), and at selected pharmacy partner locations across Nigeria. Contact us on WhatsApp with your location and we will direct you to the nearest collection point.
QWhat sexual health products does Zivoko offer?
In addition to HIV prevention medications, Zivoko provides HIV self-test kits, guided risk assessment, and broader sexual health care through our trained pharmacy partners. Our product range continues to expand, so contact us to find out what is currently available.
QIs Zivoko a licensed and legitimate pharmacy platform?
Yes. Zivoko is a pharmacist-led healthcare access platform. Every order is reviewed and dispensed under the accountability of a registered superintendent pharmacist. All medications are sourced through authorised pharmaceutical channels and handled by licensed pharmacists. Our operations comply with Nigerian pharmaceutical regulations and the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023.
Delivery Speed, Coverage & Discretion
QHow fast will my order be delivered?
Orders placed in the morning are typically delivered the same day across the states we serve.
Hub cities, including Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Asaba, Onitsha, Benin City, and Kano, receive orders within a few hours during the day. Lagos and Abuja also maintain active delivery at night.
Other locations served by these hubs receive same-day delivery for morning orders and next-day delivery for late orders.
PEP orders are always given the highest dispatch priority and processed immediately after pharmacist clearance.
QDo you deliver to my state?
Yes. Zivoko delivers to every state in Nigeria and the FCT, through a coordinated network of pharmacy and logistics partners. If you are unsure about coverage in a specific area, contact us on WhatsApp and we will confirm.
QHow discreet is the packaging?
All orders are packed in plain, unbranded materials with no reference to the product name, medical terms, or the nature of the contents. The label carries only your name, phone number, and delivery address. Deliveries are handled exclusively by trained Zivoko staff and partner couriers bound by our discretion standards.
Your Information Is Safe with Us
QIs my personal and health information kept confidential?
Yes, absolutely. Any health information you share, including the type of medication you order or any risk assessment details, is treated as sensitive personal data and handled with strict confidentiality. It is accessible only to the pharmacist processing your order and is never shared with third parties for commercial purposes. Zivoko complies with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023. For full details, see our Privacy Policy.
QWill anyone know what I ordered?
No. Your packaging contains no indication of the product inside. Our couriers and pharmacy partners are trained to handle all orders with complete discretion. The only people with access to your order details are the pharmacist who processed it and the delivery personnel responsible for getting it to you.
Still have a question?
Our team is available around the clock. Reach us on WhatsApp for the fastest response, especially for urgent PEP enquiries.
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Zivoko is committed to making HIV prevention and sexual health care accessible to everyone.